Around this time last year I started writing a blog entry that I didn't finish, purely and simply because I ran out of time. Halloween is quickly approaching and we all know that it is an incredibly difficult time for some pet greyhounds. Those that have previously raced and been rescued should be made to feel like part of the family and should be comfortable at all times. However, some owners insist on dressing them up to the eyeballs for Halloween. There is nothing wrong with buying pet costumes to celebrate certain times of the year for your greyhound but it is important to bear in mind that there are certain guidelines that you should follow.
Firstly, if you do want to choose Halloween costumes for your greyhound then remember that full body costumes will undoubtedly make them feel uncomfortable. I do not like them at all on greyhounds because many will cause nerves and a lot of discomfort. However, greyhounds should be wearing a coat when they set foot outside in the fall and winter as a result of their human-like ability to feel cold through their short natural coats. Why not choose a Halloween themed coat instead? This will ensure that they stay warm without causing upset. There are some gorgeous Halloween greyhound coats out there to choose from. Alternatively, decorative collars are the perfect choice for greyhounds because they provide a little colour without upsetting your dog too much and allow him or her to join in the festivities.
Secondly, go for a professionally made costume instead of a home made one for your greyhound. The reason behind this is that professional ones are designed to fit dogs perfectly and will have all of the necessary seams and padding. Any you choose to make may not and thus may restric the comfort and movement of your greyhound. They may look cute but that does not mean they are happy!
Finally, make sure that you get your greyhound used to the costume before leaving it on for more than thirty minutes or so because this gies your greyhound a chance to get used to the outfit and will not prove as stressful a little later on. No costume, including novelty coats or collars, should be left on for more than a couple of hours. Would you like to be dressed as a pumpkin for upwards of three hours? No, and the same applies for your hound. Moderation is the key.
The reason why I started ths post last year was because I saw a greyhound that is owned by a man in my village paraded around as a pumpkin. As ridiculous as that may sound, it is true. The poor sweetheart was obviously uncomfortable because the costume was incredibly large and very poorly fitted... and yet I saw him wearing it for a good few hours. I just wanted to mention it because there are ways and means of encouraging your pet's comfort whilst celebrating Halloween and there are plenty of tasteful costumes out there for greyhounds and other breeds alike so be responsible and fun can be had by all, including your dog.
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2 comments:
i want to dress my greyhound for halloween. he is 85 lbs. any idea where i can purchase one or have it custom made? thanks
I would actually think that a homemade costume would be better.... As it can be made of a more suitable material be made to the exact size and measurement of your personal dog rather than just buying a predetermined size category. I think that if a dog owner has enough care to make their own rather than buying some junky prepackaged one, then they also will be mindful and considerate to their pet in how long they are wearing it, etc.
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